I drove for a while, letting my mind quiet for a bit, before I saw a pub with two massive tables and benches outside. The huge awning said that it had the “Best Fish and Chips in Ireland.” If they were printing it that big, they had to be at least a little bit certain it was true, or else no one would go. No one sat outside, but the parking lot was mostly full, even though it was three p.m. Too late for lunch, too early for dinner.

As soon as I opened the car door, mouthwatering scents hit me. If I wasn’t mistaken, I smelled lobster mac and cheese. This place was going to be my favorite ever. I didn’t even have to try it out. The scent told me everything I needed to know.

The inside of the pub was dimly lit and smelled old and musty. There were people tucked away in every corner, but they were too busy chatting and enjoying their pints to really notice me. Which suited me just fine. I took a menu and ordered at the bar.

“I’ll just be at the table outside.”

The middle-aged bartender paused as he entered my order into the computer. “It’s a wee bit chilly out there. You sure?”

“Yes. I prefer it.”

He nodded. “I’ll bring you a hot tea if you like.”

I wasn’t a tea person, but apparently that was going to have to change. “Do you have jasmine?”

“I do indeed.”

“That would be lovely. Thank you.”

“That’s grand. No worries. Shall I bring some water or tea for your friends?”

“Friends?”

“You’ve ordered nearly the whole menu twice over.” He looked me up and down. “Not meanin’ anything by it, but you’re a skinny thing. You sure you want all this food?”

His response meant that I was far enough away that pack didn’t come here. This was definitely going to be my new favorite spot. I gave him a smile. “I promise I can eat it all.”

“You one of those Americans who does those eatin’ contests?”

I laughed. “No.” Although it could be fun to enter one. I bet I could kill it.

“Oh. Well, then. If you’re sure…” Although he didn’t look convinced in the slightest. “I’ll just have them bring the food out as it’s ready. That way it’s not sitting there getting cold.”

I handed him my card to hold for the tab. “That’s very appreciated.”

“If you don’t mind, I’m going to have a bet with the kitchen staff. You seem to know what you’re about, but they’re not going to buy it. Not once they get a load of you.”

“Of course.” I took the water he handed me and went back outside.